East Hampton Engagement : Nichole & John : East Hampton, NY
As nice as it is to be able to use New York City as a resource for engagement session locations, I look forward to the opportunity to explore new settings. Nichole & John have family connections on the East End of Long Island so we met up on a blustery Fall day in the Hamptons with the beach all to ourselves.
Barclay New York InterContinental Wedding : Sarah & Chris : New York, NY
Sarah & Chris' wedding at the Barclay New York InterContinental was everything you could dream of in a elegantly appointed midtown masterpiece of a property. I have absolutely never witnessed a bridal suite like this one with its massive living space and balcony. Truly the ideal place to get ready for the wedding day.
After an intimate first look on the balcony, we walked outside to Park Avenue for a few photos before it was time to stand under the chuppah. Fleurs NYC designed the florals which 'married' just perfectly with the built in decor of the hotel. And of course, the show-stopping cake by Ron Ben Israel was positively covered in hand made sugar flowers. Absolutely amazing.
Washington Square Park Engagement : Dara & Jared : New York, NY
Washington Square Park in the Spring is a gorgeous place for a NYC engagement session especially with the crisp afternoon light streaming through! Within a couple blocks of the park are several interesting spots which make it a really versatile setting. If you're looking for an alternative to Central Park that has just a touch of natural elements mixed with more of the city feel, Washington Square Park is an excellent option.
Brooklyn Bridge Park Engagement : Kate & Ryan : Brooklyn, NY
The ingredients for a gorgeous engagement session in Brooklyn or anywhere are always great light and stunning location. Brooklyn Bridge Park has become so popular and crowded these days but if you go on a weekday on the outer edges of the season (mid October in this case) you can have a relaxing session. It really is worth it if you want those sweeping views because there is little else like it. On the New Jersey side you can get an amazing view as well but the sun sets in front of you rather than behind. No better or worse just a different look and feel.
Tappan Hill Mansion Wedding : Venue Tour : Tarrytown, NY
Tappan Hill Mansion, set at a high point overlooking the Hudson River in Tarrytown, NY, offers a beautiful, relaxed, historic without being stuffy atmosphere for a wedding in Westchester County. After winding your way up to the venue you're greeted into a white rotunda with dramatic high ceilings which is perfect for family photos and other portraits. In my eyes, the two main draws have to be the dramatic stone lined ceremony space with sweeping views as well as the wonderful hospitality provided by Abigail Kirsch Catering. You can always count on a wonderful meal at Tappan Hill. Additionally, when you pay for a vendor meal at TPM you can be assured the vendor is receiving a real hot plate of food which is infinitely appreciated in the midst of a long day on our feet.
You'll find a tastefully appointed getting ready suite as well as some adjoining rooms which can be utilized in the case of a large bridal party. I tend to gravitate to those neighboring rooms because there is much more light to work with. Groomsmen will usually get ready in a wood trimmed room on the first floor. I've also personally seen couples choose to get ready at a nearby hotel and then move on site for final touches.
For photos, the grounds feature large lawns, mature trees, forested areas, and landscaping out front. I could return to the venue several times and make the weddings look different which means each wedding won't be so cookie cutter. In the event of rain, the rotunda, ceremony space, and windows along the main cocktail area will be your main opportunities.
Tappan Hill has an understated elegance enhanced by its natural surroundings. There is a feeling of serenity here that gives you the feeling of a getaway from the city while still being just a short 30 minute drive or train ride away. It's one of my favorite venues within close range of New York City.
